How to drive the paved D89 Road in the Pyrenees?
France, europe
16.7 km
2,241 m
moderate
Year-round
# D89: A Thrilling Pyrenean Adventure
Ready for a mountain road that'll get your adrenaline pumping? D89 winds through the stunning Pyrénées-Orientales in southern France, right near the Spanish border. This scenic gem takes you all the way up to Puigmal, and trust me, the views are absolutely worth it.
Starting from Sainte-Léocadie, this 16.7 km route climbs 929 meters to a parking area sitting pretty at 2,241 meters above sea level. The average gradient of 5.56% might sound manageable on paper, but the winding bends and heart-stopping drop-offs mean you'll definitely want to stay focused behind the wheel. The pavement isn't perfect—some sections are a bit rough around the edges—and things get genuinely tight in places where two cars can barely squeeze past each other.
Set high in the Pyrenees, D89 delivers that dramatic mountain scenery you dream about, with sweeping vistas that'll make you want to pull over at every hairpin turn. Just keep in mind this road is typically locked down by snow and ice during winter, so plan your visit for warmer months when conditions are more forgiving. Bundle up though—even in summer, the cold and wind at elevation can catch you off guard.
This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive, but if you've got solid driving skills and a taste for spectacular alpine scenery, D89 is an unforgettable experience.
Where is it?
How to drive the paved D89 Road in the Pyrenees? is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.4803, 2.3355
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,241 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 45.4803, 2.3355
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